THE KINGITE MEETING.

Globe, Volume XXIV, Issue 2523, 10 May 1882, Page 3

THE KINGITE MEETING.

[PRESS ASSOCIATION TELEGBAM.J ALEXANDRA, May 9, There has been a drenching rain all day. Tawhaio sent word to the Europeans not to go away. Talking would commence immediately the weather will permit. Tha settlement is a sea of mud. Sergeant MoGovin has placed a constable at each door of the hotel, rigidly enforcing the prohibition of liquor law. [fbom the cobbespondbnt of 188 “ PBEBS ] WELLINGTON, May 9. The reports received by Mr Bryce to-day respecting the meeting of the King Natives has inspired much anxiety and some little apprehension, Tawhiao is reported to have bean drinking very freely at Alexandra, as also have many of his followers. The result is that owing to the abundant supply of drink the chances of any public benefit occurring from the meeting either to Europeans or Natives are now very small. The action of the Alexandra publican in supplying liquor to the Natives is severely animadverted on, and he will probably hear more of it. In the meanwhile he seems to be master of the situation, for on the Government refeniug the matter to the law officers and carefully comparing the survey maps, it was clearly proved that Alexandra is just outside the Native district, so that the publican cannot legally be stopped from selling grog to_ the Maoris. However, instantly that this was put beyond a doubt an Order in Council was drawn up rectifying this, and despatched to Christchurch for the signature of his Excellency the Governor, so this will soon bo set right. The present fear is lest some dispute may arise among the crowd of excited and wholly or partially intoxicated Natives, in which case it is impossible to say what mijht bo the consequences. The Government are, however, taking steps quietly and unostentatiously to provide for any contingency. The unfortunate proximity of the Native meeting plaoe to Alexandra makes it very difficult to impose any efficient chock on the Native indulgence in strong liquors. It is hoped, however, that the cloud may pass over without mischief.